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Wingstop is expanding in the Southeast thanks to a development agreement to open several new locations throughout Georgia and South Carolina.

Richard Connolly of Hilton Head, S.C. has signed a multi-unit development agreement that includes Savannah, Pooler, Hinesville, and Fort Stewart in the state of Georgia and Lexington and Richland Counties in the state of South Carolina.

Connolly, who also owns 13 Panera Bread locations throughout Georgia and South Carolina, was drawn to Wingstop’s ease of operations and focused menu of cooked-to-order wings and sides.

“I heard about Wingstop from friends in the restaurant industry who had very good things to say about the brand, and its parent company, Roark Capital Group,” Connolly says.

“That led me to research the company for myself, and try the product. I love the simplicity of the concept and keeping the focus on fresh, made-to-order wings and fries.”

Prior to Panera Bread, Connolly operated 11 Burger King locations for more than 20 years. He expects to open his first Wingstop within the next six months and is currently scouting locations.

“In my career I’ve always tried to attach myself to the leader within an industry,” he says.

“From what I’ve learned, and seen for myself, I believe Wingstop is at the top of its class. This concept is building an excellent long range business plan that I’m excited to join.”

"We're very excited to welcome Rich as a member of the Wingstop family," adds Steve Sweetman, director of franchise sales for Wingstop.

"He's a strong operator who brings years of QSR experience to the brand. We look forward to growing with him in the Southeast."

With a sole focus on cooked-to-order chicken, the Wingstop menu features traditional and boneless wings, chicken strips and Glider sandwiches – all sauced and tossed in 10 original flavors. Homemade side dishes include fresh-cut seasoned fries, baked beans, and potato salad.

Headquartered in Richardson, Texas, Wingstop[7] has more 500 restaurants open across the United States and Mexico. Wingstop was acquired in 2010 by Roark Capital Group, an Atlanta-based private equity firm that specializes in business and consumer service companies with attractive growth prospects and revenues ranging from $20 million to $1.0 billion. For more information visit wingstop.com[7], wingstopfranchise.com[8] or facebook.com/Wingstop[9].